Beech Mountain is a difficult climb that was used as a stage finish in the now defunct Tour DuPont. Turn left on Ski Loft Rd at mile 3.1 to finish (4/10ths mile at 13%). Lance Armstrong used this hill early in his cycling recovery.

Directions - In Banner Elk, NC head west on 194 for 3/10ths mile to Beech Mountain Rd (on your right). The listed statistics start from the dip 1/4 mile down Beech Mountain Rd.

High Knob is among the steepest climbs in the Southeast U.S. The first 2 miles are the most difficult and a very narrow road gets you to its unmarked top. Several tight switchbacks will get your undivided attention but very little traffic makes this a great climb. Due to its steep grade it is a very difficult descent.

Directions - From Route 23 in Wise, Virginia exit to route 619. Head south on Route 619 for 0.2 miles where the listed climb begins.

This is the first of 5 routes up Lookout Mountain that begin in Tennessee. The start is steep then the route levels off before a final steep section with great views of the valley to your left. The listed climb ends at Mockingbird Lane with Rock City to your left.

Directions - In Chattanooga, TN head north on Broad St to Route 17. Head south on 17 for a short distance to Ochs Highway on the right (stoplight) to begin the climb.